I clip five stave
barb wire strung
in the early 1900’s.
It bites into the bark
of ancient trees bearing leaves
of orange, red, brown on
great hulking branches.

Erected with plans,
now removed with our plans
amongst the chewing cows
who have no plans,
except being with the trees,
breathing with the crops.

Charlette Cornillie

I carry this poem by my friend Charlette with me, for just such a moment as this. Her farm is in Grant County.